150 years ago on May 16, 1870, Massachusetts passed An Act relating to free instruction in drawing, which has become known as the 1870 Drawing Act. This declared drawing instruction a vital part of public school education. MAEA is partnering with the Drawing Act Coalition to sponsor a community art installation this May.
MAEA’s Advocacy Liaison Alice Gentili composed an article about the Drawing Act. In her article she includes many resources for teachers, along with an extensive history of the Drawing Act and how it was implemented in education at the time.
Take a look at the the original drawing instruction book, the Teacher’s Companion to the American Drawing Slates and Cards and the collection of Drawing Cards from within the book. Thanks to Alice Gentili for creating these amazing resources!
To learn more about the Drawing Act Exhibits click below.
